Savoring Wyoming: Italian Perspectives on Authentic Western Cuisine

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Savoring Wyoming: Italian Perspectives on Authentic Western Cuisine

Milan, known for its authentic pizza and pasta, surprises many visitors with a unique twist on American cuisine. A walk near the famous Duomo reveals a chain of restaurants called Old Wild West, which offers an unexpected take on the Wild West theme.

For nearly 25 years, these eateries in Italy serve things like steaks and hamburgers, mixed with odd dishes like Cheyenne Chicken. It’s a far cry from traditional Italian fare. On my recent stop in Milan, I decided to check this out despite some reservations from locals, including Marco Congiu, a news anchor who humorously cautioned against it. He recalled the chain’s earlier days when it had more excitement due to its location near a popular nightclub.

Eating at an Old Wild West restaurant feels like stepping into an American saloon. There are swinging doors and wagon-like tables, but the atmosphere is a mix of kitschy decor, which can be amusing. This restaurant environment reflects a quirky desire to recreate the Wild West experience, even if it often misses the mark.

When I arrived, I found a small group waiting to enter. They seemed to be regulars, casually chatting in Italian. The menu’s headings were a little puzzling. “Gran Canyon Meats” and “White Mountain Meats” didn’t resonate with Wild West imagery, but they featured familiar items like steak and ribs. I opted for the Cheyenne Chicken, curious about its identity as a “Western” dish.

Interestingly, according to a recent survey, 59% of Americans prefer traditional dining experiences when abroad. They may find Old Wild West more a novelty than a genuine reflection of American culture. Still, I enjoyed my meal, served with a side of fries, all for nearly $25—a reasonable price for this quirky outing.

However, it was disappointing to note the absence of truly American drinks like whiskey. Instead, the drink menu leaned heavily on typical Italian wines and some American-style beers, which felt off for a place claiming to celebrate Wild West culture.

The Old Wild West chain is a cultural curiosity. For American travelers, it’s a reminder that dining abroad can yield surprising—and sometimes humorous—interpretations of their culture. Despite its long presence in Italy, the restaurant misses the mark in offering a truly authentic Wild West experience, something that even the hit show “Yellowstone” hasn’t seemed to influence. In the end, perhaps returning to the local dishes and flavors may be the best tribute to Italy’s culinary roots.



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